Henry Patterson has been an entrepreneur since age five when he started a venture of selling horse manure. From there he came up with many other types of ventures until he found that one that made him the most happy. When Henry was ten he wrote a book titled The Adventures of Sherb and Pip which was a story about an imaginary shop run by a mouse and an owl. This book sold thousands of copies and with the help of family and monetary grants Henry was able to bring the characters in the book to life through the shop “Not Before Tea.” Henry chose the name “Not Before Tea” because it was always his Grandma’s response when he would ask for sweets. There are over 40 “Not Before Tea” shops throughout Europe and they sell products such as bags, cushions, pencil cases and soft toys. This unique company is a fast growing children’s lifestyle brand that uses organic fabrics and avoids plastics to promote keeping our planet clean. Henry is very passionate about what he does and developed another passion for speaking about his company. He has spoken at numerous trade and business events. He wishes to help young people develop their entrepreneurial talents and said once, “Lots of children have great ideas for businesses, which they can work on in their spare time and grow when they finish their education.”
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This story is inspiring showing that with an imagination and a little bit of money anything is possible. Our generation needs to encourage this kind of thinking to build the imagination of children who will be our future. The fact that a ten year old had the imagination to write a book and then the ambition to make his characters come alive within a company is amazing.
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For more information about Henry visit http://www.notbeforetea.co.uk/
I find it so interesting and inspiring that a young boy, with a story he wanted to share, was able to create such a successful business, especially at his age. It truly demonstrates that, if one has an idea or passion, age and walks of life do not matter if an entrepreneur has the drive and devotion to bring that idea or passion to life.